Compare Leopold FC650MDS vs FC660M Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two classic Leopold 65% pre-built keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core Leopold traits like PBT keycaps and Cherry MX switches, but diverge on key layout and connectivity features. The FC650MDS offers a split spacebar and USB-C, while the FC660M provides DIP switches for hardware-level layout changes. Your preference for a specific ergonomic feature or a legacy connectivity option will be the deciding factor.

Model
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Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Offers Split Spacebar ergonomics Compatible with both Mac and Windows Connects via USB-C Made with a Plastic case	Offers Normal ergonomics
Score	Scores Performance: 51.6 Build Quality: 44.8 Productivity: 54.1 Customizability: 45.6 Portability: 68.1	Scores Performance: 52.8 Build Quality: 46.1 Productivity: 42.7 Customizability: 43.4 Portability: 63.8
Name	Name Leopold FC650MDS	Name Leopold FC660M
Release year	Release year 2024	Release year 2024
Switch Options	Switch Options Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent	Switch Options Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 65%	Layout Size 65%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Split Spacebar	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Wired, Wired only	Connection Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate	Polling Rate -	Polling Rate -
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity -
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Plate Mount	Mount Style Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight	Backlight
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Plastic	Case Material -
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight -	Weight -

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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Leopold FC650MDS is the more practical choice due to its modern USB-C port, split spacebar flexibility, and lower cost. Only choose the FC660M if hardware DIP switches for remapping keys like Caps Lock are a non-negotiable requirement for your workflow, and you are willing to accept its older USB connector.

Leopold FC650MDS

+Features a split spacebar layout for potential ergonomic or functional benefits.
+Uses a modern USB-C connection for the cable.
+Explicitly listed as compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux.
+Includes adjustable feet for multiple typing angles.
+Available at a lower price point according to vendor listings.

−Lacks hardware DIP switches for layout customization.
−Some user reviews mention concerns about keycap quality and uneven spacebar.
−Wired-only connectivity limits placement flexibility.

Leopold FC660M

+Includes DIP switches for hardware-level key layout customization.
+Features a classic, proven Leopold 65% design.
+Uses double-shot PBT keycaps for durability.

−Uses a legacy USB connection type instead of USB-C.
−Currently listed as out of stock or at a higher price point.
−Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
−Lacks a split spacebar layout.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The FC650MDS wins for office and content creation due to its split spacebar and modern USB-C connectivity with broad OS support. The FC660M is the pick for programming because of its DIP switches for hardware layout customization. For gaming, travel, and modding, the keyboards are effectively tied, sharing nearly identical core specs, wired nature, and non-hot-swappable construction.

GamingTie

•Both offer N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
•Both are wired-only with no specified latency advantage.
•Both are available with linear Cherry MX Red or Speed Silver switches.

OfficeLeopold FC650MDS

•The FC650MDS lists explicit Mac, Windows, and Linux compatibility.
•It includes a split spacebar which can be mapped to additional functions.
•It features a USB-C connection, which is more modern and reversible.

ProgrammingLeopold FC660M

•The FC660M includes DIP switches for customizing key layouts like swapping Caps Lock and Ctrl.
•This hardware-level remapping can be useful for specific programming workflows without software.

TravelTie

•Both share the same 65% compact form factor.
•Both are wired-only with a 60-inch cable, offering no inherent portability difference.
•Both have plastic cases, likely resulting in similar weight.

ModdingTie

•Neither keyboard supports hot-swap sockets for easy switch changes.
•Both use plate-mounted switches and plastic cases.
•Both feature double-shot PBT keycaps, leaving little room for keycap upgrades.

Content CreationLeopold FC650MDS

•The FC650MDS has a split spacebar, offering two potential macro keys for shortcuts.
•It uses a USB-C connector, which is commonly found on modern laptops and docking stations.
•The vendor description confirms multimedia key functionality.